Addison's disease in cats: treatment and response to therapy
5-year-old Domestic Shorthair cat with lethargy, anorexia, weakness and dehydration. He has hyponatraemia and hyperkalaemia, and an ACTH stimulation test confirms primary hypoadrenocorticism. After 24 hours of fluids and glucocorticoids electrolytes have improved, but he is still dull and not eating.
Which statement is correct?
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A. If there is no clinical improvement after 24 hours, the diagnosis is probably wrong
Unlike dogs, which usually improve within hours, cats with Addison's may take several days to recover clinically even with correct treatment.
B. In cats prednisolone alone is enough, because aldosterone deficiency is rare
Most cats with Addison's have primary hypoadrenocorticism with both glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid deficiency, as shown by the hyponatraemia and hyperkalaemia.
C. DOCP is contraindicated in cats and only fludrocortisone can be used
DOCP has been used successfully in cats (off-label), as has fludrocortisone; both are valid options.
D. Cats often take 3–5 days to improve, and maintenance requires a mineralocorticoid and a glucocorticoid
Correct. A slow clinical response is characteristic of cats. Maintenance is as in dogs (DOCP or fludrocortisone plus prednisolone), adjusted by electrolytes and signs; the long-term prognosis is good.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Feline Addison's is rare but treated as in dogs. Be patient: clinical improvement may take days. In cats, also consider adrenal infiltration by lymphoma as a cause.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.